Project Kuiper: Amazon May Launch Satellite Internet Network In India (Image: Amazon)

E-commerce conglomerate Amazon is reportedly planning to make an appearance in India”s satellite communication industry. Amazon has initiated the procedures for applying for licenses from various government departments for its satellite-based broadband internet services, named Project Kuiper.

The Economic Times reports that the e-commerce giant is currently working with the Central government and local partners to establish “affordable broadband” across India. The report indicates that Amazon has filed an application with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to obtain the regulatory approval. With this initiative, Amazon is going to give a tough competition to industry leaders,  including Reliance”s Jio Satellite and Bharti Airtel-backed OneWeb. Earlier, reports said that Elon Musk”s Starlink may also soon provide satellite internet services in India. The ET report claims that Starlink”s application is currently under review. India is currently considered as a potential market as the Indian space policy 2023 sets stage for private sector participation.

Project Kuiper, a significant initiative by Amazon, is to enhance broadband access through a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit. Amazon says that their objective is to deliver fast, reliable, and affordable internet to unserved and underserved places around the globe. Amazon mentioned on its website that Project Kuiper has secured 77 heavy-lift launches from Arianespace, Blue Origin, United Launch Alliance, and also has options for additional launches with Blue Origin, providing enough capacity to deploy the majority of their satellite constellation. According to Amazon, more than 1,000 people are currently working on the Project Kuiper program.